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Jessica Dankert is the Communications & Donor Relations Manager of Bridge of Life. Follow them on Facebook and YouTube and learn more at bridgeoflifeinternational.org.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
Bridge of Life works to strengthen healthcare globally through sustainable programs that prevent and treat chronic disease.
WHY DO YOU DO IT?
Our vision is a world where every human being has access to quality healthcare.
WHAT IMPACT ARE YOU MAKING?
Since 2006, Bridge of Life has provided 155 international medical missions in 26 countries and 301 domestic screenings and events with the help of more than 1,100 volunteers, impacting more than 110,000 lives.
WHAT (OR WHO) INSPIRES YOU TO MAKE THIS IMPACT?
Bridge of Life is inspired by the many individuals living across the globe without regular access to healthcare services and treatment due to costs, location and other factors. Many men and women have never even seen a health professional within their lifetime and are unable to obtain healthcare for their families.
WHAT’S YOUR BIG DREAM FOR THE ORGANIZATION AND THE IMPACT YOU WANT TO MAKE?
Our goal is to strengthen healthcare for men, women and children around the world through programs that not only provide immediate services but also long-term, sustainable solutions for patients managed by our in-country partners. Bridge of Life has developed programs in kidney care and chronic disease prevention in order to meet the needs of these patients and provide education on maintaining healthier lifestyles.
WHAT RESOURCES DO YOU NEED TO MAKE THOSE DREAMS COME TRUE?
Bridge of Life seeks partners in countries throughout the world that can continue to sustain improved patient treatment outcomes long after our missions are complete. We look to both corporate and individual donors who can support our programs through monetary contributions or in-kind donations of supplies and equipment.
WHAT IS (OR HAS BEEN) YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?
Our biggest challenge is to find ways to leave a much larger footprint in the communities where we work instead of just temporary or short-term fixes. We continue to evolve our programs to ensure that our partners can effectively sustain improved patient care within their clinics, centers, hospitals, and facilities.
WHAT WORDS OF ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER LEADERS LOOKING TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
If you are looking to establish a nonprofit organization or start your own philanthropic mission, seek out volunteer opportunities with other organizations. Being in the field is the best way to not only determine others’ needs but to hear their stories. Even the smallest of gestures can be life-changing for people.
HOW CAN OTHERS SUPPORT YOU OR YOUR CAUSE?
If you would like to support Bridge of Life’s programs, we invite you to visit our website for more details on our work and to consider making a contribution via our online giving page. Your gift, no matter how big or small, will help provide healthcare access for thousands across the globe.
Orapin Marketing + Public Relations is an award-winning communications agency that generates awareness, engagement, and, ultimately, support for mission-driven organizations. We amplify their voice and reach so they can increase their impact. If you would like to be featured on INSPIRED IMPACT, reach out to hello@orapinmarketing.com.